Anxiety: Treatment Options

Many people don't get treatment for anxiety.

They don't think their symptoms are bad enough ... or they think they can work things out on their own.

But anxiety is a real condition that can be treated.

And most people who try treatment find that it makes a difference.

[First woman] "I've been trying something called CBT ... cognitive-behavioral therapy.

It's helped me identify the kinds of thoughts that make my mind spin ... like, 'Why is my partner 10 minutes late for dinner?

I hope she's okay ... but what if she's been in a car crash?' "

"When those thoughts happen, I ask myself ... 'Is that really likely?' And I try to come up with something a little more realistic."

"It's not easy to practice, but when I do, I feel a lot more relaxed.

I've noticed I'm laughing and enjoying my grandkids more."

[Man] "My doctor knew I didn't want to take medicines so she recommended a class that helps lower anxiety."

"I learned breathing techniques to calm my mind and body ... although it took a lot of practice to do them well."

"Going to class helped me realize that I wasn't the only guy who struggles so much with anxiety ... and that I have the power to keep it from ruling my life."

[Second woman] "I was on edge all the time and it was affecting everything."

"My counselor recommended medicines and ... after I tried a couple ... I could finally focus on the right things."

"Now, I feel like I might actually be able to go to a relaxation class."

"And ... when I'm driving to class ... I won't be worrying that I'm wearing the wrong clothes."

There are different treatments for anxiety ... like CBT ... cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation therapy, anxiety reduction classes, medicines, or a combination of these.

Maybe you've heard something here that you think might help you.